Automatic Patents (Class 378/110)
-
Power supply apparatus for an X-ray imaging apparatus, X-ray imaging apparatus and associated method
Patent number: 11558951Abstract: A power supply apparatus for an X-ray imaging apparatus includes grid connection device(s) to connect to a power grid providing an AC input voltage, including circuit protection arrangement(s) to not trip below a safety current; an actively actuatable transformer arrangement to transform the AC input voltage into a DC output voltage as a supply voltage for the X-ray imaging apparatus; an electrical energy storage system; and a control apparatus to actuate the transformer arrangement to limit power consumption from the electric power grid as a function of the safety current and make up for a deficiency of a power requirement for the X-ray imaging apparatus from the energy storage system. The control apparatus is configured to actuate the transformer arrangement for time-dependent limitation of power consumption from the power grid according to a current/time profile, the current/time profile being deduced from a time-based trip profile of the circuit protection arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2021Date of Patent: January 17, 2023Assignee: SIEMENS HEALTHCARE GMBHInventors: Michael Wimmer, Jan Berk -
Patent number: 11438994Abstract: The present application discloses a method for controlling filament current and apparatus. The method comprises: acquiring a current filament current value (S11); determining a current range within which the current filament current value falls (S12); determining a correspondence between a filament current and a control current according to the current range (S13); and determining the current control current according to the current filament current value and the correspondence (S14). The problem of large errors in the control of filament current caused by nonlinear characteristics of a filament transformer can be solved.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2018Date of Patent: September 6, 2022Assignee: Suzhou Powersite Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Fei Chen, Shengfang Fan, Qiang Huang, Wanquan Wang
-
Patent number: 11357457Abstract: According to one embodiment, an X-ray diagnosis apparatus includes an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector, an operating unit, and processing circuitry. The processing circuitry determines a focal-spot size of X-rays in second moving picture imaging after first moving picture imaging, based on an output of the X-ray detector in the first moving picture imaging, and determines a focal-spot size of X-rays in third moving picture imaging after the second moving picture imaging, based on an output of the X-ray detector in the second moving picture imaging.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2020Date of Patent: June 14, 2022Assignee: Canon Medical Systems CorporationInventors: Takuya Aida, Kunio Shiraishi
-
Patent number: 11039526Abstract: An X-ray generation device includes an X-ray tube including an electron gun that generates an electron beam and a target that generates an X-ray by incidence of the electron beam; a power supply portion including a booster that boosts an input voltage from outside to generate a high voltage and an insulating block that seals the booster with an insulating material; and a control unit that performs control to generate the X-ray. The control unit includes a first information processing element that performs at least part of the control using a digital signal at a high potential based on the high voltage. The first information processing element is sealed with the insulating material in the insulating block.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2018Date of Patent: June 15, 2021Assignee: HAMAMATSU PHOTONICS K.K.Inventors: Kazutaka Suzuki, Yuji Shirayanagi, Motofumi Tanaka
-
Patent number: 10993679Abstract: Disclosed is a portable X-ray generation device, which uses an electric field emission X-ray source, and is thus advantageous in reducing weight and volume and has excellent reliability in X-ray emission performance. The portable X-ray generation device according to the present invention includes an electric field emission X-ray source, which includes a cathode electrode having an electron emitter, an anode electrode having an X-ray target surface, and a gate electrode between the cathode electrode and the anode electrode; and a driving signal generator configured to generate at least three driving signals applied to the cathode electrode, the anode electrode, and the gate electrode, respectively, by direct current power having a predetermined voltage, wherein the driving signal generator includes a current controller maintaining a tube current between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode to have a constant value during X-ray emission.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2016Date of Patent: May 4, 2021Assignees: VATECH Co., Ltd., VATECH EWOO Holdings Co., Ltd.Inventors: Seunghun Shin, Jinpyo Chun, Taewoo Kim
-
Patent number: 10748731Abstract: An electron gun, an X-ray source and a CT device are provided. The electron gun includes a body having a first end portion and a second end portion opposite to each other, wherein the first end portion is a connecting end portion; an internal cavity is formed in the body and has an opening positioned on the second end portion; a cathode, a grid, a compensation electrode and a focus electrode, orderly arranged in the internal cavity in a direction from the first end portion to the second end portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2017Date of Patent: August 18, 2020Assignees: TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY, NUCTECH COMPANY LIMITEDInventors: Wenhui Huang, Dongsheng Zhang, Qingxiu Jin, Chengjun Tan, Donghai Liu, Qun Luo, Chuanxiang Tang
-
Patent number: 10722203Abstract: Provided is a mammography apparatus capable of reducing an increase in the size of an entire apparatus in a case where a plurality of filters and a mirror are provided. A mammography apparatus includes a radiation source that emits radiation toward an imaging stand, a visible light source that is provided outside an irradiation field of the radiation emitted from the radiation source and emits visible light, a first filter that includes an Rh filter and an Al filter as a plurality of filters that is selectively used according to the kind of imaging, and a mirror part that is provided between the radiation source and the imaging stand, includes a Cu filter used in a case where contrast imaging is performed, reflects the visible light toward imaging stand, and is movable between a position inside the irradiation field and a position outside the irradiation field.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2018Date of Patent: July 28, 2020Assignee: FUJIFILM CORPORATIONInventor: Yoshihiro Nishi
-
Patent number: 10614996Abstract: According to one embodiment, an X-ray system includes an X-ray tube including a filament in which a filament current according to a tube current flows, a filament current monitoring unit monitoring the filament current, a tube current monitoring unit monitoring the tube current, and an inspection unit determining whether the tube current falls within a predetermined set range in X-ray emission.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2018Date of Patent: April 7, 2020Assignee: Canon Electron Tubes & Devices Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tetsuya Yonezawa
-
Patent number: 10504679Abstract: Provided is an X-ray generating apparatus in which a likelihood that an anode member may be deformed by heat deformation of a container is eliminated or reduced to maintain a positional relationship between an electron source and a transmission target within a predetermined range, and stable output of X-rays is achieved. The X-ray generating apparatus includes an X-ray generating tube and the container that accommodates the X-ray generating tube. The X-ray generating tube includes an anode that includes the transmission target and an anode member holding the transmission target. The anode member is sandwiched together with a deformable member between the container and a retaining member secured to the container, thus connecting the X-ray generating tube to the container.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2016Date of Patent: December 10, 2019Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Yasuo Ohashi
-
Patent number: 10159455Abstract: An X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to an embodiment includes an X-ray tube, judging circuitry, and grid controlling circuitry. The X-ray tube is configured to radiate X-rays. The judging circuitry is configured to judge whether a voltage should be applied to a grid of the X-ray tube or not, in accordance with a radiation condition. The grid controlling circuitry is configured to apply the voltage to the grid, if the judging circuitry has determined that the voltage should be applied.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2015Date of Patent: December 25, 2018Assignee: Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationInventors: Makoto Takanaka, Kunio Shiraishi, Shinsuke Ooie, Kentarou Nishikawa
-
Patent number: 10098216Abstract: An inspection sorting apparatus includes an X-ray tube with an anode electrode and a cathode electrode, a tank housing the X-ray tube and having insulation oil contained therein, and the anode electrode and the cathode electrode are supplied with a predetermined voltage to generate X-ray. An inspection sorting apparatus has an abnormal discharge determination unit, an LCD display, and a notification control unit. The abnormal discharge determination unit individually detects a first abnormal discharge which is an abnormal discharge inside the X-ray tube, and a second abnormal discharge which is an abnormal discharge inside the tank outside the X-ray tube. The LCD display outputs notification information prompting an administrator to replace the X-ray tube or the tank. The notification control unit causes the LCD display to output the notification information in accordance with a detection result from the abnormal discharge determining unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2016Date of Patent: October 9, 2018Assignees: ISHIDA CO., LTD., JOB CORPORATIONInventors: Takashi Kabumoto, Keiichiro Yamamoto, Atsushi Iwai
-
Patent number: 9820714Abstract: An estimated exposure dose calculator calculates an estimated exposure dose, which is an estimate of an exposure dose of a subject by irradiation of radiation, on the basis of the image capturing conditions after the image capturing conditions are set and prior to the radiation imaging. An exposure dose output unit outputs the calculated estimated exposure dose to the outside.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2015Date of Patent: November 21, 2017Assignee: FUJIFILM CorporationInventors: Masataka Sugahara, Ayako Muramoto
-
Patent number: 9603577Abstract: An X-ray imaging apparatus and control method for the X-ray imaging apparatus are provided. The X-ray imaging apparatus includes an X-ray source to generate X-ray beams, and to irradiate the X-ray beams onto an object; a first X-ray detector configured to detect X-ray beams transmitted through the object and generate a first phase contrast signal; an X-ray obtainer including an X-ray collimator and a second X-ray detector, wherein the X-ray collimator is spaced apart from the object by a predetermined distance, and configured to focus the X-ray beams transmitted through the object, and wherein the second X-ray detector is configured to detect the focused X-ray beams and generate a second phase contrast signal based on the detected X-ray beams; and an image processor configured to create a phase contrast image and an absorption image of the object.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Hyun Hwa Oh, Dong Goo Kang, Sung Hoon Kang, Young Hun Sung
-
Patent number: 9497839Abstract: For boosting/blanking the filament current of a cathode of an X-ray tube the temporal variation of the tube current of the X-ray tube is measured and stored in a first memory. Then an iterative boosting/blanking is performed wherein the boosting/blanking current is applied to the filament for a short time interval (?t), based on the stored temporal variation of the tube current the tube current after the short time interval (?T) is determined, and the tube current is stored in a second memory. Based on the stored temporal variation of the tube current it is determined if the tube current (IE) is less than a target value (IE2) thereof, and if so, the boosting/blanking current is applied to the filament for an additional time interval (?t), else it is determined that the tube current (IE) is equal to the target value (IE2).Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2010Date of Patent: November 15, 2016Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.Inventors: Timothy Striker, Thomas Lehmann
-
Patent number: 9160248Abstract: A voltage multiplier 10 comprises a series of multiplier stages 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d. Each multiplier stage, for example 12b, comprises a first input 16b, a second input 14b, a first output 16c and second output 14c. The first and second outputs of a preceding multiplier stage are interconnected with first and second inputs of a subsequent multiplier stage. Furthermore, each multiplier stages, for example 12b, comprises two series connected diode elements D5, D6 having the same current conducting direction. The two series connected diode elements D5, D6 interconnect the first input 16b and the first output 16c. The second output 14c is coupled between the two series connected diode elements D5, D6. Each multiplier stage, for example 12b, comprises a buffer capacitor C6 interconnecting the respective first input 16b and the respective first output 16c.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2013Date of Patent: October 13, 2015Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.Inventor: Peter Luerkens
-
Patent number: 9126236Abstract: Disclosed herein is the use of differences in x-ray linear absorption coefficients to process ore and remove elements with higher atomic number from elements with lower atomic numbers. Use of this dry method at the mine reduces pollution and transportation costs. One example of said invention is the ejection of inclusions with sulfur, silicates, mercury, arsenic and radioactive elements from coal. This reduces the amount and toxicity of coal ash. It also reduces air emissions and the energy required to clean stack gases from coal combustion. Removal of said ejected elements improves thermal efficiency and reduces the pollution and carbon footprint for electrical production.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2014Date of Patent: September 8, 2015Assignee: Mineral Separation Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Charles E. Roos, Edward J. Sommer, Jr.
-
Patent number: 9107641Abstract: This disclosure presents systems and methods that synchronize an x-ray imaging system with the heartbeat of a patient. A patient's heartbeat is sensed with a cardiac monitoring unit, and a processing unit generates x-ray pulses that are synchronized with the patient's heartbeat. Based on the real-time heartbeat information, an x-ray imaging device can be operated to obtain x-ray images at various states of the cardiac cycle. The x-ray images taken over several cardiac cycles can be combined based on the relative state of the cardiac cycle in which the images were obtained to achieve high temporal resolution of a cardiac cycle. Additionally, x-ray images obtained at common relative states of the cardiac cycle can be combined to provide higher quality cardiac image or images.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2013Date of Patent: August 18, 2015Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventor: James Zhengshe Liu
-
Publication number: 20150085987Abstract: A method for the determination of the delay time of a radiographic generator and to the setting of a standard value for such delay time. According to the method it is determined by a series of decreasing chosen values for the delay time whether a signal for the confirmation of the start of the radiographic exposure is rendered by the radiographic generator. The last value of the chosen delay time whereby still such a confirmation signal is rendered, is retained as standard operational value for the delay time of the radiographic system.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2013Publication date: March 26, 2015Inventors: Walter Exelmans, Patrick Pandelaers, Patrick Lambrechts
-
Patent number: 8964940Abstract: An x-ray beam control system includes a feedback control loop circuit having a modulation circuit. The feedback control loop circuit generates a control signal. A x-ray tube, has a filament response profile of tube current versus filament temperature that is non-linear. A compensation circuit receives the control signal and modifies the control signal according to a compensating function that is matched to the filament response profile. The modulation circuit receives the modified control signal and generates a drive signal. The x-ray tube receives the drive signal at a filament thereof, and outputs a tube current signal having a linear response to the control signal. The feedback control loop circuit receives the tube current signal.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2012Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Thermo Scientific Portable Analytical Instruments Inc.Inventors: David J. Caruso, Mark T. Dinsmore
-
Publication number: 20150003593Abstract: A method and apparatus of current modulation in a computed tomography imaging system are provided. The method may include: selecting a plurality of sample points from an expected current modulation curve as approach points; establishing an actual current modulation curve, wherein an actual current value of the actual current modulation curve at an approach point approximates an expected current value of an expected current modulation curve, and a variation rate of the actual current is within an allowed range of the computed tomography imaging system; and modulating a current in an X-ray tube of the computed tomography imaging system according to the actual current modulation curve. According to the disclosure, an image valuable to the diagnosis can be obtained with the smallest radiation dose.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2013Publication date: January 1, 2015Applicant: Shenyang Neusoft Medical Systems Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hongbo WANG
-
Patent number: 8744039Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus is provided that generates a three-dimensional cross-section model from scanogram projection data of an examinee. An operator inputs a site of interest, an assumed displacement amount of the site and a desired image quality index value. A scan planning unit calculates an X-ray attenuation index from the three-dimensional cross-section model, and corrects the calculated X-ray attenuation index on the basis of the input site of interest, assumed displacement amount and image quality index value. The scan planning unit further determines a tube current modulating pattern (irradiation X-ray dose modulating pattern) on the basis of the corrected X-ray attenuation index. When scanning is executed, an X-ray tube is controlled according to the determined irradiation X-ray dose modulating pattern, and controlled so as to obtain an optimum X-ray dose.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2009Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: Hitachi Medical CorporationInventors: Koichi Hirokawa, Yoshiaki Sugaya, Taiga Goto
-
Publication number: 20140140474Abstract: An x-ray beam control system includes a feedback control loop circuit having a modulation circuit. The feedback control loop circuit generates a control signal. A x-ray tube, has a filament response profile of tube current versus filament temperature that is non-linear. A compensation circuit receives the control signal and modifies the control signal according to a compensating function that is matched to the filament response profile. The modulation circuit receives the modified control signal and generates a drive signal. The x-ray tube receives the drive signal at a filament thereof, and outputs a tube current signal having a linear response to the control signal. The feedback control loop circuit receives the tube current signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2012Publication date: May 22, 2014Inventors: David J. Caruso, Mark T. Dinsmore
-
Patent number: 8712015Abstract: The embodiments disclosed herein relate to the controlled generation of X-rays and, more specifically, to the control of electron beams that are used to produce X-rays using one or more electron beam manipulation coils. For example, methods and devices for driving an electron beam manipulation coil, as well as systems using these devices, are provided. The systems are generally configured to maintain a first current though an electron beam manipulation coil using a first voltage source and to switch the first current to a second current using a second voltage source.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2011Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Antonio Caiafa
-
Patent number: 8687763Abstract: The value of a tube voltage of an x-ray tube, used to acquire x-ray projections of a patient in order to generate at least one image in each phase of a multiphase examination, is determined from a contrast-to-noise ratio that establishes the desired image quality of the image in each phase, and the tube current for each tube voltage for each phase is determined given a constantly maintained contrast-to-noise ratio for different tube voltages. For each phase, a value for the dose of x-ray radiation is defined for each different tube voltage and the associated determined tube current. From among the different tube voltages, a tube voltage is set that causes the total dose of x-ray radiation applied to the patient to be as low as possible for all phases of the examination.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2011Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Ute Feuerlein, Sebastian Gehrsitz, Christiane Koch, Rainer Raupach
-
Publication number: 20130315378Abstract: A filament current that is to be supplied to a filament of an x-ray tube under imaging conditions, from the imaging conditions of the tube current and the tube voltage that is to be supplied to the x-ray tube at the time of radiographic imaging, are stored as a filament current setting value in a storing portion, and the difference between an anticipated value for the tube current when x-ray emission is performed at a given filament current and a measured value for the tube current when x-ray emission is actually performed at that filament current is measured over time as a tube current value difference, and when the mean value for the tube current value difference over a specific time interval exceeds a setting value that has been set in advance, the filament current setting value that is stored in the storing portion is corrected.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2012Publication date: November 28, 2013Applicant: SHIMADZU CORPORATIONInventor: Katsuhiro Yabugami
-
Publication number: 20130051532Abstract: The embodiments disclosed herein relate to the controlled generation of X-rays and, more specifically, to the control of electron beams that are used to produce X-rays using one or more electron beam manipulation coils. For example, methods and devices for driving an electron beam manipulation coil, as well as systems using these devices, are provided. The systems are generally configured to maintain a first current though an electron beam manipulation coil using a first voltage source and to switch the first current to a second current using a second voltage source.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2011Publication date: February 28, 2013Applicant: General Electric CompanyInventor: Antonio Caiafa
-
Patent number: 8265227Abstract: An apparatus and method for calibrating an x-ray tube include a computer programmed to acquire a starter voltage/current value corresponding to a width, a length, or a position of a target focal spot capable of being generated by the x-ray tube. The computer is programmed to generate an electron beam and to steer the electron beam based on the starter voltage/current value. The computer is also programmed to steer the electron beam based on a value adjusted from the starter voltage/current value. The computer is programmed to calculate a final voltage/current value that is configured to generate the width, length, or position of the target focal spot based on the starter voltage/current value and the adjusted starter voltage/current value.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2009Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: John Moore Boudry, Sergio Lemaitre, Naveen Chandra
-
Publication number: 20120163546Abstract: For boosting/blanking the filament current of a cathode of an X-ray tube the temporal variation of the tube current of the X-ray tube is measured and stored in a first memory. Then an iterative boosting/blanking is performed wherein the boosting/blanking current is applied to the filament for a short time interval (?t), based on the stored temporal variation of the tube cur rent the tube current after the short time interval (?T) is determined, and the tube current is stored in a second memory. Based on the stored temporal variation of the tube current it is determined if the tube current (IE) is less than a target value (IE2) thereof, and if so, the boosting/blanking current is applied to the filament for an additional time interval (?t), else it is determined that the tube current (IE) is equal to the target value (IE2).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2010Publication date: June 28, 2012Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.Inventors: Timothy Striker, Thomas Lehmann
-
Publication number: 20120057679Abstract: Discharge module which is formed by three circuits, a control and measurement circuit for X-rays, a voltage division circuit between serial switches, which is independent from the previous one, and a third circuit of the charge short circuit, which in turn is formed by a successive or slave trip circuit of the switches and another main discharge circuit through the switches; due to the established configuration, a much improved radiation control is achieved as it is not affected by unforeseen agents, the short circuit current is not restricted to the port current of the switches, and residual voltage of the switches is reduced.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2009Publication date: March 8, 2012Inventors: Angel Diaz Carmena, Ildefonso Moreno Vallejo
-
Patent number: 8036340Abstract: An X-ray apparatus includes a converter into which there is integrated a control logic circuit configured to regulate the supply voltage of a high-voltage power supply source of the X-ray apparatus. To this end, the intelligent voltage-voltage, converter is placed between the power battery and the capacitor bank. This intelligent converter is capable of determining the optimum voltage to be delivered to the generator for the radiology examination to be undertaken in regulating the current of the power battery at the necessary level of current.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2008Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Jose-Emilio Soto Santos
-
Patent number: 7995703Abstract: A method for controlling automatic X-ray exposure in an X-ray CT system includes establishing a correspondence table or function relationship between a ratio factor and an offset of a geometrical center of a scanned section, wherein the ratio factor represents a ratio of the projection area value when the geometrical center of the scanned section of a subject deviates from a rotation center to the standard projection area value when the geometrical center of the scanned section of the subject locates at the rotation center, scout scanning the subject, and calculating a “measured projection area value” and Projection Measure based on the scout scan data, calculating the offset of the geometrical center of the scanned section from the rotation center, substituting the offset into the correspondence table or function relationship to obtain a corresponding ratio factor, calculating the standard projection area value based on the ratio factor and the measured projection area value, and automatically determining byType: GrantFiled: December 23, 2008Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLCInventor: Xiongwei Yan
-
Patent number: 7924981Abstract: A discharging part of an X-ray generator using a one-side earthed X-ray tube is earthed is identified on the basis of the tube voltage detected value and the tube current detected value. For the identification, the X-ray generator comprises a device comprising tube voltage decrease slope calculating means (S4), tube current increase calculating means (S4), first judging means (S5) for judging whether or not the slope of the tube voltage decrease exceeds its acceptable value, second judging means (S6) for judging whether or not the increase of the tube current exceeds its acceptable value, and discharge portion identifying means (S7, S8) for identifying the discharging part which is in the X-ray tube or a high-voltage generating unit on the basis of the results of the judgments made by the first and second judging means. The identified discharging part is displayed on display means (S9).Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2007Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Hitachi Medical CorporationInventors: Hirokazu Iijima, Jun Takahashi
-
Patent number: 7894570Abstract: A weight (22) and height (24) of a patient who is to undergo a calcium screening examination in an x-ray diagnostic scanner (10) is used to calculate an appropriate x-ray dose in terms of tube current (mAs) for the calcium screening examination in accordance with the formula: mAs=c(BMI)2, where BMI is a patient's body mass index defined as: BMI=patent weight_(patient height)2.and C is a constant selected in accordance with a target required noise. In this manner, patients can be scanned with a minimum dose necessary to achieve the target noise, e.g., 20 HU. The images can be compared with earlier (and subsequent) images that have the same target noise.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2004Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventor: Rami Evron
-
Publication number: 20090316859Abstract: A discharging part of an X-ray generator using a one-side earthed X-ray tube, i.e., the anode or cathode is earthed is identified on the basis of the tube voltage detected value and the tube current detected value.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2007Publication date: December 24, 2009Inventors: Hirokazu Iijima, Jun Takahashi
-
Patent number: 7636422Abstract: This invention is provided to determine a tube current at the imaging of the heart by an X-ray CT apparatus in such a manner that image noise becomes constant. Upon determining a tube current of an X-ray tube at the time that the heart is imaged by an X-ray CT apparatus, the tube current is determined based on an index related to image's noise and a BMI of a subject. The noise is at a central portion of an ascending main artery. Determining the tube current is conducted using a function with the BNI as a variable. The function is given in the form of a polynomial equation of the BMI. Each coefficient of the polynomial equation is a function of the index.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2008Date of Patent: December 22, 2009Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLCInventor: Li Jianying
-
Patent number: 7636416Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus includes a projection data analysis part that reconstructs a tomographic image at an imaging portion of the object used for analysis from the projection data and produces a control profile by reprojecting the reconstructed tomographic image, and a tube current control part that controls value of current to be fed to the X-ray tube based on the produced control profile.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2006Date of Patent: December 22, 2009Assignee: Hitachi Medical CorporationInventors: Osamu Miyazaki, Koichi Hirokawa, Toshiyuki Irie
-
Patent number: 7620142Abstract: The present invention is directed to a networked scanner environment wherein each scanner is communicatable with one or more databases configured to store data associated with previously executed imaging sessions. The one or more databases may be queried by a user to determine, based on a set of user inputs, an historical evaluation of the prior imaging sessions conducted in accordance with scan parameters similar to the scan parameters of an imminent imaging session. The present invention includes a global database that is accessible by a series of remotely located imaging systems as well as includes one or more databases particular to a specific treatment facility housing one or more imaging scanners. The present invention is also applicable with a stand-alone imaging system having a database local to that particular imaging system for storing and accessing data associated with imaging sessions conducted on that particular imaging system.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2006Date of Patent: November 17, 2009Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Thomas L. Toth
-
Patent number: 7587023Abstract: A radiation dose modulation apparatus controls radiation dose in coronary CT angiography that utilizes an X-ray CT system including a multi-row detector. The apparatus is provided with a tube current modulation table storage unit which classifies standard deviation values of CT numbers calculated from a pre-contrast cardiac CT image into a number of levels, and stores a table in which the levels correspond to tube current modulation values, and a processing unit which calculates standard deviations of CT numbers from at least one pre-contrast cardiac image, identifies the tube current value corresponding to the standard deviations from the tube current modulation table, and controls a scan operation at the time of CT imaging for obtaining a post-contrast coronary image in accordance with the identified tube current value.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2007Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Inventor: Gham Hur
-
Patent number: 7409043Abstract: A method for controlling focal spot size changes of an x-ray source in an imaging system includes measuring focal spot sizes as a function of a plurality of x-ray source operating parameters, determining a calibration table or transfer function utilizing the measured focal spot sizes as a function of the plurality of x-ray tube operating parameters, and utilizing the calibration table or transfer function to control focal spot size variations during operation of the imaging system.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2006Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Bruce Matthew Dunham, Jonathan Richard Schmidt, Sergio Lemaitre
-
Patent number: 7366283Abstract: An apparatus and method for an x-ray system includes an x-ray emitter having a first electrode and a second electrode. A high voltage supply is electrically connected to the first electrode. A power supply is electrically connected to the second electrode. A controller electrically connected to the high voltage supply and power supply is configured to provide a predetermined parameter to the second electrode during operation of the x-ray emitter to generate the predetermined dose rate from the x-ray emitter. During operation of the x-ray emitter, at least one operational value of the second electrode corresponding to the predetermined parameter is measured and combined with the predetermined parameter using an algorithm to obtain a modified predetermined parameter to be provided by the controller to the second electrode during a subsequent operation of the x-ray emitter.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2006Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Gendex CorporationInventors: Todd R. Carlson, John J. Gregorio, Roberto Molteni
-
Patent number: 7336762Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus includes a host and a scanner that executes a scan based on a scan program communicated from the host by means of communicating means. The X-ray CT apparatus also includes a communicating means which collectively communicate the calculated values of X-ray applied amounts at every scan positions or original data for the calculation of the amount of X-ray application even with respect to unprogrammed scan positions. Each of the calculated values of X-ray applied amounts corresponds to a tube current value of an X-ray tube. The original data for the calculation of the amount of X-ray application corresponds to X-ray penetrated image data of a subject.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLCInventors: Masaru Seto, Yasushi Sato
-
Patent number: 7286641Abstract: The invention relates to a method of controlling the exposure of an X-ray image. Starting values for the tube current, the tube voltage and the exposure duration are hereby set on the X-ray tube (10). Following the start of the exposure, the resultant dose rate is measured by a sensor (30, 31) and made available to a control system (100, 200, 300). In order to achieve a predetermined dose for the X-ray image, the control system adjusts the following variables in succession: the tube current within a current range; if applicable, the exposure duration within a time slot; the tube voltage within a voltage range; the exposure duration within the time slot. A rapid controlling of the tube current is enabled, preferably by the pulse-width modulation of the counter-voltage at the control grid of the X-ray tube.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2004Date of Patent: October 23, 2007Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics, N.V.Inventors: Joachim Brendler, Reinhard Steiner
-
Patent number: 7233645Abstract: A control system for an X-ray source includes a sensor interface for receiving one or more sensor signals representative of operation of the X-ray source; a programmable controller operative in response to the one or more sensor signals and a sequence of control instructions for generating one or more control signals for controlling the X-ray source; and a control interface for supplying the one or more control signals to the X-ray source, either directly or indirectly.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2004Date of Patent: June 19, 2007Assignee: INPHO, Inc.Inventor: Francis Michael Feda
-
Patent number: 7215733Abstract: A plurality of region-specific areas are set on a scanogram, and an image SD value is set for each region-specific area. A tube current calculating unit calculates a tube current value at each position on the basis of a tube current pattern in a tube current pattern storage unit, an image SD value for each region-specific area, and a CT value at each position on the scanogram in each region-specific area. A scan controller controls X-ray emission in accordance with a calculated tube current value at each position.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2005Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationInventor: Takeo Nabatame
-
Patent number: 7203270Abstract: An X-ray computed tomographic apparatus includes a gantry, a reconstructing portion, and a tube current value determining portion. The gantry acquires projection data of an arbitrary range in a body axial direction by continuously moving a tabletop on which a subject is laid down and by continuously rotating an X-ray tube about the subject. The reconstructing portion reconstructs image data from the acquired projection data according to reconstruction processing selected by an operator from plural types of reconstruction processing. The tube current value determining portion determines plural tube current values respectively corresponding to discrete, plural positions within the range, on the basis of the selected type of reconstruction processing and an image quality level specified or selected by the operator.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2004Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationInventors: Miwa Okumura, Masahiro Kazama, Naofumi Watanabe, Hideaki Takanezawa
-
Patent number: 7142630Abstract: An X-ray computed tomography apparatus includes an X-ray tube, a high voltage generator which generates a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube, an X-ray detector having a plurality of X-ray detection element lines, a scanogram generating unit which generates a scanogram on the basis of an output from the X-ray detector, a reconstructing unit which reconstructs an image on the basis of an output from the X-ray detector, a tube current determining unit which determines a tube current value on the basis of the pixel values of a plurality of pixels included in a two-dimensional partial region of the scanogram, and a control unit which controls the high voltage generator on the basis of the determined tube current value.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2005Date of Patent: November 28, 2006Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventor: Tetsuro Suzuki
-
Patent number: 7106824Abstract: An X-ray computed tomographic apparatus includes an X-ray tube which generates X-rays, an X-ray detecting unit which detects X-rays transmitted through a subject to be examined to acquire projection data, an image reconstructing unit which reconstructs image data from the acquired projection data, and a tube current value setting unit which sets a tube current value for the X-ray tube on the basis of the projection data and information about contrast examination planned for the subject.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2005Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Masahiro Kazama, Shinsuke Tsukagoshi
-
Patent number: 7079622Abstract: A method for determining the heating time constant of a cathode of an X-ray tube. The value of a boost current applied during a preliminary period must be a function of both a pre-existing heating holding current and a service current to be used subsequently. A model of evolution of cathode temperature produces a minimizing tube current error between a tube current that is expected for the tube and a tube current obtained. The model requires only four parameters that need to be computed.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2004Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLCInventor: Patrick Chretien
-
Patent number: 7050539Abstract: A power supply for X-ray generators which includes at least one inverter (11, 12, 13), at least one transformer (111, 121, 131) and at least one voltage cascade (112, 122, 132) for generating a supply voltage for an X-ray tube (15). In order to increase the output power that can be achieved with a comparatively small weight and a low ripple or output capacitance, the voltage cascade is conceived in respect of its capacitances and the stray inductance of the transformers (111, 121, 131) in such a manner that it can be made to operate in the resonance mode by appropriate control of the inverter. In respect of the properties mentioned it is notably advantageous to integrate a two-phase embodiment or three-phase embodiment with an X-ray system so as to form a compact tank generator.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2002Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Christoph Loef, Arne Lunding, Heiko Osterholz, Heinz Van Der Broeck
-
Patent number: 6956929Abstract: In a method for controlling the modulation of the tube current of an X-ray tube in the production of images using computed tomography, a single topogram of the examination subject is obtained and an orthogonal attenuation value is calculated therefrom, also making use of geometrical information associated with the position of the table on which the examination subject is disposed. In a subsequently-obtained computed tomography scan, the tube current is controlled using the orthogonal patient attenuation.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2003Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Heiko Wolf, Christoph Süb, Stefan Popescu